Maybe you’ve always been fascinated by the history of the Salem witch trials. Perhaps you spent your childhood pretending to perform spells. Or, hey, maybe you’re drawn to all things mystical and moody. You’re certainly not alone — in the immortal words of Practical Magic, “We all have a little witch in us.” And, if you want, you can have a little witch(iness) in your home, too.
Don’t worry; you don’t have to become part of a coven, unless you want to. Rather, you can embrace your witchy ways by using actual witchcraft at home. No flying brooms are involved, although, admittedly, that would be pretty cool. Still, the following DIY witchcraft is worthy of your time and, in the true spirit of witchcraft, your energy.
Crystals
According to Erica Feldmann, author of HausMagick: Transform Your Home With Witchcraft, witches use crystals in a variety of ways. “Crystals form within the Earth, and each one has a unique vibration. The healing power comes from the ability of these vibrations to connect the user to the Earth and harmonize with the healing energies,” Feldmann told Star Tribune, adding, “Crystals are also wonderful tools for cleansing, comfort, balance and protection.”
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To get the gist of which crystals to use and for what, check out Exemplore’s list of essential crystals for the beginner witch. For example, you can use selenite to ward off bad dreams. Need help with anxiety and depression? Pick up some rose quartz.
A grimoire
What, you’re probably asking, is a grimoire? Also known as a book of magic, a grimoire is typically a place to store spells and incantations. However, modern grimoires cover a much broader scope. “In reality, the grimoire is as varied a tool as every other part of the craft,” explains The Traveling Witch. “Each witch will have their own version of what a grimoire is and they will construct theirs accordingly.”
This means you can use yours for anything that makes you feel particularly magical. You could chart lunar cycles. You could write down affirmations. You could, in fact, use your grimoire to record beginner’s spells. It’s yours to infuse with your own magic — whatever that may be.
Tarot cards
According to Wicca Living, tarot cards are a common magical tool used by witches for divination (aka asking for divine information about the future). To be clear, witches believe that it takes a lot of practice — years even — to develop a proper feel for reading tarot cards. But if you take the time, it can be a highly rewarding way to gain clarity about your life or spiritual journey.
Ready to take the first step toward becoming a tarot card reader? Wicca Living has a comprehensive rundown for beginners.
Sigils
Like grimoires, sigils might not be something with which you’re immediately familiar. Mumbles and Things defines a sigil as “an intention that is condensed into a single glyph.” But, in short, you can essentially think of a sigil as a magic symbol you create. Sigils can be used for a wide range of purposes, which are pretty much decided by you when you create them. “They are coded with your unique purpose and can be deciphered only by you, allowing your intention to remain a secret as the universe works to align and deliver your desire. This gives them incredible power,” says Mumbles and Things.
What’s interesting about sigils is that the only way to activate them is to destroy them. So, maybe jot ones you create down in your grimoire? To get the hang of creating your own sigils, you’ll want to read through this super-easy step-by-step guide.
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Smudge sticks
So, this witchcraft practice has become trendy enough in mainstream culture that you’ve probably heard about it or have maybe even picked up a “smudging kit” somewhere. If you want to embrace your witchy ways, though, learning about how to make and use your own smudge sticks should be on your to-do list. Per Witchipedia, “Smudging involves burning of herbs to release their aromatic scent in order to purify an object, person or area.”
To make a smudge stick, you’ll need to bundle herbs together, binding them tightly with a string. As for what herbs to use, well, you’ll have to do a little digging in order to decide what your ultimate goal is. Magical Recipes Online can kick you off with seven different smudge stick “recipes,” along with an explanation as to why you should choose each one.